Clackamas, Oregon – John Swanson withdrew his name yesterday for Oregon’s Republican Party Chair and endorsed John Lee Jr. for the position.

“John Lee was the architect of many of the plans and strategies I hoped to take state-wide as GOP Chair,” said Swanson. “It’s a no-brainer for me to step-aside and support John in his election to head the state party this February.”

After serving as statewide Chair of the Oregon College Republicans, Swanson worked in Salem as a Legislative Assistant for Senator Jason Atkinson and Chief of Staff for Senator Chuck Thomsen.

Swanson said that Lee is a sharp contrast to Art Robinson and presumptive candidate Suzanne Gallagher. “John is committed to running the party successfully and has committed to serving the full term and won’t use this this position as a springboard to run for political office. John is running to rebuild the party and make the brand relevant again,” said Swanson. “Lee has a track record of energizing voters with conservative ideals of limited government – and not focusing on issues that don’t win elections.”